VOICES THAT BUILD LOS CABOS | PEOPLE WHO HAVE HELPED SHAPE THE DESTINATION THROUGH CREATIVITY, COMMUNITY, AND LONG-TERM VISION.
“Nicksan hasn’t just served generations; it has been part of their memories and celebrations.”
Approaching four decades of excellence in a destination as vibrant and competitive as Los Cabos speaks volumes about Nicksan’s ability to evolve while staying true to its roots. More than a restaurant, Nicksan has become a culinary landmark for travelers seeking elevated cuisine in one of Mexico’s most exclusive destinations.
The Nicksan Legacy
We begin the experience at the bar of Nicksan Cabo, where Ángel Carbajal invites us to enjoy a glass of Tequila Mexitas Reposado. “Created by my sister Carmen alongside her partners—and a Project I’m also involved in—Mexitas was launched six years ago and is now available in Europe and, more recently, in the United States,” he shares. “You can already find it in all 24 Mastro’s restaurants, with more locations coming soon.”
Launching a new brand always requires courage. While uncertainty is part of the process, embracing entrepreneurship has allowed the family to grow and expand internationally. Today, Mexitas’ global presence reflects the strength of a familydriven vision built on passion and long-term commitment.
Over 30 Years of Culinary Evolution
Nicksan was a pioneer of the open-kitchen concept in Mexico, preparing dishes to order while maintaining precision and harmony—even during peak demand. Over the years, the restaurant has welcomed three generations of guests and is now reaching a fourth, rearning loyalty through consistency, innovation, and exceptional service.
“In the beginning, we learned everything hands-on—from guest service to accounting and team management,” Ángel explains. “My background as an industrial engineer helped shape the structure and operational systems that fueled Nicksan’s growth.”
Despite rapid development, Los Cabos has preserved its authentic spirit. Local organizations, business leaders, and institutions work together to protect the destination and ensure sustainable growth. This strong sense of community is one of Los Cabos’ greatest strengths—and part of what keeps travelers coming back.
From the Ocean to the Fairway
“Fishing was my first connection to the sea, long before Nicksan opened,” Ángel recalls. “I started with a small boat like the Spicy Tuna.” Golf came later, introduced by close friends, and quickly became a space for building relationships—both personal and professional—where conversations flow naturally in a relaxed, reflective setting.
A Place Where Stories Are Shared
For decades, Nicksan has been a meeting point for locals, expats, and international travelers alike. “We’ve seen entrepreneurs, executives, and families grow over the years, making Nicksan part of their milestones and celebrations. Los Cabos is a place where dreams can become reality—with discipline, integrity, and hard work.”
A Family-Driven Philosophy
Today, six family members lead Nicksan’s operations in Los Cabos, each playing a key role—from leadership and administration to purchasing and kitchen execution. Their hands-on approach and problem-solving mindset have been essential to maintaining high standards without relying on external solutions. “What drives us is the operation itself—especially when we surprise our guests and exceed expectations.”
New generations have joined the team, bringing fresh perspectives and energy. Direct interaction with guests, particularly at the bar, creates a sense of familiarity and trust. Towork in front-facing roles, team members must demonstrate a positive attitude, availability, and strong English skills, ensuring a seamless and personalized experience.
“Our team is central to everything we do,” Ángel says. “We invest in internal growth and value-driven leadership. Knowledge is shared generously, though we carefully protect our recipes and processes.
Improvement happens daily, not in formal meetings, but through constant refinement.” Signature Dishes Not to Miss First-time visitors are encouraged to try Nicksan’s most iconic creations: cilantro sashimi, tuna tostadas, gorgonzola shrimp, lobster rolls, and squid cones wrapped in soy paper.
Many of these dishes originated in the spirit of creativity, turning overlooked ingredients into standout menu highlights. Collaborations with local fishermen and organic farmers further elevate the dining experience, despite the challenges of sourcing premium ingredients.
Resilience and Reinvention
“Every decision involves a balance between fear and confidence—especially when introducing new dishes or removing those that no longer make sense,” Ángel reflects. “Economic downturns and the rapid growth of Los Cabos have tested us, but our focus has always been on quality, consistency, and creating reasons for guests to return.”
Voices from the Team
Longtime team member Arnoldo, with over 20 years at Nicksan, emphasizes the importance of service excellence. Jorge Carbajal highlights pride in preserving the restaurant’s original essence. Edgar Carbajal, the youngest of the group, speaks about internal growth and strong values. As founder, Ángel Carbajal remains focused on creating unforgettable experiences and guiding the next generation forward. Nicksan’s success is rooted in teamwork, adaptability, and an unwavering commitment to excellence. “We’re proud to have played a role in positioning Los Cabos as a world-class destination—and we’ll continue evolving to offer the very best to every guest who walks through our doors.”
